2009 Australian Open: Rafael Nadal vs. Roger Federer; The Rematch Stage is Set!

So the stage has been set. The rematch the tennis world has been waiting for since early July 2008. The first match between Spain’s Rafael Nadal and Switzerland’s Roger Federer since… The Match.

To say that this is something we’ve all been waiting and hoping for is something of an understatement… of the century. But what does it all really mean? What is it that Roger wants to say? Does Rafa have a message that he wants to get out? Let’s try to break it down.

Last year was not the beginning of the end for Federer. The dude had mono for the first half of 2008. He was sick and he still managed to make the 2008 Australian Open semi-finals, three Grand Slam finals and his fifth straight US Open title. Does Roger Federer want his 2009 tennis season to start off with a message that touches on aforementioned fact and take back his spot at the top of the game?

You bet your ass he does.

And from Rafael Nadal’s perspective, what does he want to communicate to the world? Does he want his first hard court grand slam title? Does he want to solidify his place at the top of the tennis world and show those pro Federer fans (including this blogger) that 2008 was not a fluke? Does he want this? Against his greatest rival?

You bet your fucking ass he does!

Sorry for the language but this calls for a term that makes an impact. This is HUGE!

Who will win?

Beyond my less-than-subtle leaning towards Federer, I believe he looked more crisp and in tune during his semi-final match against Roddick than the tough epic match Nadal had to endure during his semi-final match against fellow countryman Fernando Verdasco.

Whoever starts off strong will have a huge advantage. That sets the tone not for this particular match but for the season. Both men are healthy, fresh and seemingly in the zone.

My prediction: Federer wins his fourth Australian Open title in 4 sets.

cap

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